Q6: Men in Black

"California argued that its compelling state interest in the special admissions program (a la affirmative action) was to (1) increase minority representation in medicine, (2) counter racial discrimination in society..." (page 91, para 3).

I personally believe that points 1 and 2 are very valid reasons for implementing affirmative action - but Levin points out that they are unconstitutional.

So, the questions?

1. How much do you subscribe / extend support to this cause?
2. If not for affirmative action what do you propose as counter measures for racism in society?

[George starts by making a racist comment about “you white people.”!]
Joe: AA isn’t constitutional but I’m a big fan. In practice, it’s done good things.
Jn: Can you use something negative to do good? Does it really create a positive?
Joe: It has been a vehicle for change – offers white students a different perspective, people with different experiences.
Jn: The issue is with students who deserve to be admitted are not.
[discussion about AA]
Val: Whether you think AA is right/wrong, ethnic diversity at schools will be spotlighted if the percentages do not reflect diversity.
Joe: But did that come about BECAUSE of AA?
Val: I think it would be better if it came about naturally, instead of forced through laws and court cases (like slavery and the civil rights movement). People will follow it more willingly if they brought it about themselves.
[more discussion about AA….]
Ray: There’s no doubt that someone from an underprivileged societal status will benefit from AA.
…
Jn: AA tries to fix the problem from the top, not from the bottom (when they first start in school). It tries to fix the education system the wrong way. I wouldn’t want to be let into a school b/c I’m white – it’s insulting. I don’t think it really respects the people.
Ge: [explains India’s caste system and how India now has similar program to AA] People from upper castes complain, and lower castes don’t complain that it’s based on their skin.
Jn: Georgia example – public institution that was all black denied someone white entrance – he sued, and white guy LOST. AA should have “worked” there.
Ge: AA does a lot of good, providing opportunity to bring about changes.
Jn: Argument some ppl use – if you have white and black guys applying for same position and have the same qualifications & credentials, then the black guy gets it. Is that fair? No.
Ge: It’s fair in the light of all the oppression they had to go through in the past century.